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Saturday, March 28, 2020

Bruce Dickinson - Accident of Birth (1997)

Bruce Dickinson - Accident of Birth (1997) front coverBruce Dickinson - Accident of Birth (1997) back cover
Bruce Dickinson - Accident of Birth (1997)

Bruce Dickinson – Accident of Birth (1997)

Release Date: September 3, 1997
Label: EMI / Sanctuary Records
Type: Studio Album
Genre: Heavy Metal / Hard Rock
Length: 56:57
Producer: Roy Z

Overview

Accident of Birth is Bruce Dickinson’s fourth solo album and marks a return to classic heavy metal after the experimental alternative rock of Skunkworks. Reuniting with guitarist Roy Z, who co-wrote and produced much of the album, Dickinson delivers a powerful mix of soaring vocals, aggressive riffs, and melodic hooks.

The album is often regarded as one of Dickinson’s strongest solo efforts, combining Iron Maiden-style metal with fresh songwriting and modern production. Standout tracks include “Accident of Birth,” “Man of Sorrows,” and “Darkside of Aquarius”, showcasing Dickinson’s signature vocal range and Roy Z’s intricate guitar work.

Critics and fans praised the album for its tight compositions, high-energy performances, and return to heavy metal roots, establishing a blueprint for future solo releases.

Tracklist

  1. Accident of Birth – 5:56

  2. Road to Hell – 4:35

  3. Gods of War – 5:25

  4. Man of Sorrows – 4:52

  5. Back from the Edge – 4:11

  6. The Tower – 4:48

  7. Kills Devil Hill – 4:53

  8. Stranger in a Strange Land – 4:10

  9. Painted Skies – 5:38

  10. Hell No – 4:31

  11. Darkside of Aquarius – 8:12

Special Editions / Bonus Tracks:

  • Japanese edition includes “Cadillac Gas Mask” as a bonus track.

Fun Facts & Trivia

  • Roy Z Collaboration: Roy Z co-wrote, produced, and played guitar on the album, redefining Dickinson’s solo sound and contributing to his heaviest, most focused work.

  • Return to Metal: This album marked a return to heavy metal after Skunkworks’ alternative experimentation, pleasing longtime fans.

  • Did You Know? Adrian Smith, Bruce’s bandmate from Iron Maiden, played guest guitar on two tracks, reinforcing the Maiden connection.

  • Critical Acclaim: Widely considered one of Dickinson’s best solo albums, it was praised for its balance of melody, aggression, and technical precision.

  • Themes: Lyrics cover war, personal struggle, rebellion, and introspection, reflecting both epic and personal storytelling.

  • Touring: The album was supported by a world tour, featuring high-energy performances and selections from both solo and Iron Maiden catalogs.

  • Title Track Legacy: “Accident of Birth” became a staple in live shows, often regarded as a signature Dickinson solo anthem.

  • Artwork: The cover features a surreal painting of a woman and skull imagery, symbolizing birth, death, and destiny.

Album Credits

Bruce Dickinson: Lead vocals, backing vocals

Band / Collaborators:

  • Roy Z: Guitar, backing vocals, co-producer

  • Adrian Smith: Guest guitar on select tracks

  • Eddie Casillas: Bass guitar

  • David Ingraham: Drums

Production Team:

  • Producer: Roy Z

  • Engineer & Mixing: Shay Baby

Mini Review

Accident of Birth is Bruce Dickinson’s most powerful and cohesive solo album, blending traditional heavy metal with modern production and songwriting sophistication. The title track and “Man of Sorrows” showcase soaring vocals and intricate guitar work, while “Darkside of Aquarius” adds epic depth. Reuniting with Roy Z, Dickinson delivers a focused, high-energy performance, proving he could craft a solo record that rivals the intensity and precision of his Iron Maiden work.